Texas Tech names former QB Kliff Kingsbury new head coach

Kliff Kingsbury played quarterback at Texas Tech from 1998-2002, and now he will guide the Red Raiders from the sideline.

Kingsbury was named the head football coach at Texas Tech on Wednesday. He succeeds Tommy Tuberville, who left unexpectedly last week to take the Cincinnati job.

The 33-year-old Kingsbury was the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Texas A&M this season, where he coached Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel.

Prior to his time at Texas A&M, Kingsbury was an assistant coach at Houston (2008-2011), where he mentored quarterback Case Keenum. The 2011 Cougars led the nation in total offense, passing offense and scoring.

Kingsbury, one of the most celebrated players in Texas Tech history, was drafted by the New England Patriots in 2003. He spent time with multiple NFL teams while also playing in Europe and the CFL.

The Red Raiders went 7-5 this season. Texas Tech will play Minnesota in the Meineke Car Care Bowl of Texas on Dec. 28.